ENVIRONMENT

South Carolina Lifts Burn Ban As Drought Persists

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Columbia, S.C. — The South Carolina Forestry Commission lifted the statewide burn ban Monday morning after extremely low humidities and gusty winds that prompted the March 27 ban subsided; officials announced the ban ended at 7 a.m. and urged continued vigilance as elevated drought persists across much of the state. Officials said above-average fire danger is expected through April, citing U.S. Drought Monitor data showing nearly 86% of the state in moderate-to-extreme drought; SCFC Fire Chief Darryl Jones instructed residents to notify the commission before burning, and Horry County scheduled its local ban lift for Tuesday at 8 a.m.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

March 27: South Carolina Forestry Commission issues statewide burn ban due to low humidity and gusty winds.
Weekend (late March): A roughly 300-acre wildfire occurs in Dillon County and is contained within several hours.
Weekend (late March): North Charleston responds to a fast-moving outside fire near Aviation Avenue requiring multiple units.
Monday morning: SC Forestry Commission lifts the statewide burn ban; announcement posted via release and X; ban ends at 7 a.m.
Tuesday morning: Horry County schedules lifting of its local burn ban for 8 a.m.; residents reminded to contact SCFC before burning.

Why This Matters to You

The lifted burn ban in South Carolina means you can now have controlled fires, but caution is key. With 86% of the state in moderate-to-extreme drought, fire danger is still high. Before you burn, notify the Forestry Commission.

The Bottom Line

Despite the lifted ban, the drought persists. Stay vigilant and safe by following local guidelines and keeping a close eye on weather conditions. Worth forwarding if you know someone planning a controlled burn.